Cancer Survivor Races for Breast Cancer Awareness

A West Palm Beach woman is running in the New York City Marathon to raise awareness after a breast cancer recurrence.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Cancer

Cancer Survivor Races for Breast Cancer Awareness

After receiving a breast cancer diagnosis in January 2024, Kristen Dugan is now competing in the New York City Marathon to raise awareness so the disease is not inherited by her children. Dugan is currently undergoing chemotherapy and immune therapy following a recurrence 21 months after her initial diagnosis.

Why it matters

Dugan uses her platform as a patient and athlete to highlight the importance of advocacy while continuing her own medical treatments. Her participation aims to secure a future where her three daughters are not impacted by the disease.

Dugan completed five months of chemotherapy following her initial 2024 diagnosis before experiencing a recurrence 21 months later. She is one of 20 participants selected for the Susan G. Komen New York City Marathon team.

The players

Kristen Dugan

She is a breast cancer patient and advocate who serves as the event chair for the local More Than Pink Walk.

Susan G. Komen

This is a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to breast cancer research, advocacy, and patient support services.

The details

Dugan secured her place on the marathon team through a competitive interview process while managing her ongoing treatment plan. Her medical journey involved brain scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, and biopsies to identify the cancer recurrence.

Kristen Dugan received an initial breast cancer diagnosis in January 2024.
Dugan is scheduled to chair the More Than Pink Walk in West Palm Beach on January 30, 2027.

Health Landscape

The story follows a pattern set by the Susan G. Komen More Than Pink Walk, which mobilizes patient advocates to fundraise for breast cancer research. These grassroots efforts bridge the gap between clinical research and patient support services in communities across the country.

Patients dealing with recurring breast cancer may find value in the combination of physical activity and immune therapy as part of a holistic management approach. This story underscores the critical necessity of regular monitoring, including MRIs and biopsies, for those with a history of the disease.

The takeaway

Dugan demonstrates that maintaining an active lifestyle can coexist with the rigorous demands of chemotherapy and immune therapy. Her commitment serves as a reminder to prioritize both long-term health advocacy and the pursuit of personal goals despite medical challenges.